Attention! It’s THE RIDE here, tipping my hat to all Sailors, Marines, Coast Guard personnel, and other members of the military in NYC for Fleet Week (May 25-31). For almost three decades, New Yorkers have looked forward to seeing ships from the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard as they arrive in the Big Apple each May for seven days of festivities. Although there will be events all over the city, including concerts, parades, and drill performances, the main attraction of Fleet Week is always the opportunity to take tours of the visiting ships at theManhattan Cruise Terminal, the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, and the Homeport Pier on Staten Island.

Once you’ve seen all there is to see onboard the ships, head back to Times Square and enjoy a different kind of tour: a sightseeing extravaganza via luxurious motor coach (that’s me). You’ll be able to sit down, relax, put your feet up and enjoy seeing the marvels of Manhattan. THE RIDE is a deluxe, interactive, entertainment-laden experience in Mid-town, including views of the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Broadway theaters, and much more. THE TOUR, a somewhat more straightforward (but certainly no less awesome) sightseeing excursion, covers more ground (going as far south as Koreatown and the Garment District, and as far north as Lincoln Center and the Dakota on the Upper West Side) but without the musical, dance, and theatrical performances.

Whichever you choose, you’ll get a special deal in honor of Fleet Week. Throughout the week of May 25-31, tickets for THE RIDE are just $55 (usual price $74); while tickets for THE TOUR are just $35 (down from $45). And if you have a military ID, you’ll pay only half the regular ticket price. It’s the least I can do to show support for our troops. And that deserves some attention, indeed!